Parent-Infant Education in Schools for Deaf Children: Before and After PL 99-457

This report looks at parent-infant programming in schools for deaf children nationwide, comparing data from two surveys of these schools, one before and one after enactment of PL 99-457, one in 1982 and one in 1990. Surveys were returned by 107 schools in 1990 (60 residential and 47 day), 81 of which responded both in 1982 and 1990. Of the schools that responded to both surveys, parent-infant programming for children 0-4 years old and their families was reported by 89% in 1982 and 95% in 1990. Enrollment doubled during the period, from 1,602 students to 3,411. The major increases were in the number of students receiving part-time instruction (1/2 to 2 hours per week), which almost tripled, and the number receiving instruction primarily in the child's home. Data are presented on the extent of parent-infant programming and on student characteristics, program funding, and respondent concerns. Implications of these findings and the implementation of PL 99-457 are also discussed.